Former Tottenham Hotspur striker, Jermain Defoe, has suggested why Viktor Gyokeres has struggled at Arsenal so far this season.
Gyokeres has failed to shine at Arsenal since joining the Gunners from Sporting Lisbon last year.
The Sweden international was exceptional for two seasons during his time at Sporting, but has failed to replicate his outstanding form for Arsenal so far.
Speaking on Premier League Productions, Defoe suggested that the pre-season that Gyokeres had really affected his performance for Mikel Arteta’s side, adding that it is a big factor in why he is yet to hit the ground running for the Premier League leaders.
“I love Gabi Jesus. I have always liked him as a player. I like Havertz and Gyokeres too. Gyokeres is a goal scorer,” Defoe said.
“It’s not happened for him this season for whatever reason. You know, he missed the pre-season.
“I think that is a big factor. I think people don’t realise that when you try to hit the ground running.”
Gyokeres netted 97 goals in 102 appearances for Sporting during his time at the Portuguese club.
However, the Sweden international has only scored nine goals in 27 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal this season.